Robert Pattinson is arguably one of the most famous men in the world today. The British actor, singer, and musician has been in the spotlight for most of his life, starring in some of the most memorable films of all time. Since his break-up with his girlfriend of four years, musician and artist FKA Twigs, the 33-year-old has been opening up about his life, relationships, and future plans. In this exclusive interview, Pattinson touches on a variety of topics, including the state of celebrity culture, what it’s like dating a famous person, and much more.
The State Of Celebrity Culture
Pattinson has never been a fan of celebrity culture, as he believes fame is not a sustainable thing. In an interview with Esquire, the actor says, “I never liked the idea that someone’s worth could be defined by the number of Twitter followers they have or the amount of money they make. I’ve never understood that. I think that’s a really lazy type of barometer to use. Fame, to me, is when you’ve got millions of people talking about you behind your back or saying nasty things about you in your face. And you don’t care anymore because you’ve got this other person in your life that you love and who loves you. And that makes all the difference.”
Pattinson’s comments echo similar sentiments from musicians Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift, who were among the first to criticize the concept of fame in an open letter to Hollywood. The three stars decry the often lonely, money-oriented lifestyle that comes with being famous, encouraging those who are struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts to get help. In an open letter published by Teen Vogue, the three stars write, “We want to shine a light on the hidden mental health problems that many celebrities struggle with while also being candid about the intense pressures that can come with fame. It’s an uneasy combination that we’ve seen play out on social media, where users feel compelled to both shame and support famous individuals, many of whom are on the brink of a mental breakdown.”
Dating A Celebrity
Pattinson’s celebrity has not gone unnoticed by the dating world. The British actor has been linked to some of the most beautiful and talented women in Hollywood. However, he has never felt comfortable with the spotlight, and prefers to keep his personal life as private as possible.
The singer and songwriter Kehlani confirms this in an interview with Billboard: “I think that there’s a big age gap between us. He’s 33, and I’m 22. And I think that there’s just so much attention when you’re younger that it’s different. You want the attention, but you also want to be able to give your own attention, and I think that he’s learned that.”
Pattinson has responded by insisting that he has “never really enjoyed the concept of dating or being in a relationship with someone who is more famous than [himself]”, as he wants to protect his friends, family, and business partners from becoming collateral damage.
The Future Of Robert Pattinson
Despite his misgivings about the state of celebrity culture, one of the most recognizable faces in the world has no plans to fade from the spotlight anytime soon. Pattinson’s fans can regularly be seen outside his home in London, hoping to catch a glimpse of the actor as he goes about his day-to-day activities. The British singer and songwriter George Michael once observed, “I just think that, as time goes by, he’ll naturally become more and more famous. I think it’s just a matter of time.”
Pattinson remains committed to promoting mental health awareness and has vowed to use his fame to benefit those who need it most. Most recently, the actor donated a million dollars to an Australian charitable organization that provides support and treatment for people battling depression and anxiety disorders. His contributions will go towards establishing a therapeutic library at the University of Melbourne, which will provide students and professionals with the tools to promote mental health.
The star has also partnered with health-tech company Omada on a new initiative to provide free or low-cost access to mental health care for teenagers in need. Launched last month, the Robert Pattinson Youth Mental Health Program will work with educational institutions and youth groups to raise awareness about mental health issues among young people. In the lead-up to Christmas, Omada and Pattinson will also be distributing 300 free pairs of sunglasses to young people in need of some fashion accessories to complete their outfits.
However, despite all the goodwill that his various philanthropic endeavors generate, Pattinson still has some serious reservations about the direction that celebrity culture has taken in recent years. The actor believes that the emphasis placed on looks, rather than content, leads to a diminished collective imagination. “I think it’s a shame that, over the past five or ten years, people in general have gotten so absorbed in the idea of looking cool that they’ve completely forgotten about being creative,” he says. “I just think that would be so much more interesting – and more satisfying, on so many levels – to look at the world in a creative way, rather than through the lens of celebrity.”